cbn molecular graphic with a chemist backdrop

What is CBN and How Does it Differ from CBD?

Read this simple guide to understand the differences between CBN and CBD, how they work, and what makes each unique.

 

What are CBN and CBD? How are they made? What's the difference between them? This guide will explain it all in simple terms.

What Are Cannabinoids?

Cannabinoids are natural compounds found in cannabis and hemp plants. There are over a hundred of them, and each one can interact with your body in its own way. The most well-known cannabinoid is arguably THC. 

What is CBD?

CBD stands for cannabidiol. It's the most abundant cannabinoid  from hemp plants. When heat or light hits a chemical called CBDA, it turns into CBD. CBD does not have a psychoactive effect like THC does. It is known for being milder on the body and mind instead. CBD comes in many forms such as oils, gummies, and creams.

What is CBN?

CBN stands for cannabinol. It’s much less common than CBD, and you won’t find it in fresh plants. Instead, CBN forms when THC breaks down over time. As cannabis ages or is exposed to air and light, THC slowly turns into CBN. 

How Are CBN and CBD Made?

CBD and CBN come from the same plant, but they’re made in very different ways.

  • CBD starts as CBDA in the plant. When the plant is heated or dried, CBDA turns into CBD. This happens naturally or when people make products.

  • CBN is made when THC breaks down. Over time, THC is exposed to air and light and slowly turns into CBN. This is why CBN is rare and harder to find.

Because CBN is only created in plants after they are harvested, it’s not as easy to get as CBD. This also means CBN products are usually more expensive.

How Do CBN and CBD Work in the Body?

CBD and CBN both work with the endocannabinoid system in your body. This method helps your body stay balanced and work well. It's like a network that lets your brain and the rest of your body talk to each other.

Because they interact with the same system, CBN and CBD can have some similar effects. But they also have their own unique qualities.

Here are the main ways CBN and CBD are different:

  • How they’re made: CBD comes from CBDA in fresh plants, while CBN comes from THC in plants after they are harvested.

  • How common they are: CBD is very common and easy to find. CBN is rare and harder to get.

  • Main effects: Unlike CBD, in larger quantities CBN may provide some milder psychoactive effects.

  • Cost: CBD is usually less expensive. CBN is usually more expensive.

  • Popularity: CBD is more popular and well researched. CBN is less popular and less researched.

CBN vs CBD

CBD and CBN are two interesting compounds that come from hemp and cannabis plants. They are made in different ways and have different effects, even though they are from the same family. 

Both can be part of a wellness routine, but before you try something new, it's always a good idea to learn as much as you can and talk to a professional. More research on CBD vs CBN will help us learn more about these interesting plant compounds.